Raymond van Barneveld conceded he must “regroup” after suffering an opening-round defeat at the 2025/26 Paddy Power World Darts Championship, as his record-equalling 33rd appearance at Alexandra Palace ended in disappointment on Wednesday.
The five-time World Champion was beaten by Stefan Bellmont, who delivered a composed and historic performance to become the first Swiss player to record a victory at the sport’s showpiece event. Bellmont, this year’s Winmau Challenge Tour champion, reeled off eight consecutive legs to seal a landmark win, despite averaging 91.36 compared to Van Barneveld’s 92.50.
While generous in defeat, Van Barneveld was left reflecting on a frustrating campaign and an evening that summed up his struggles in 2025. “It has been a very poor year for me. I need to regroup myself,” Van Barneveld told Viaplay post-match.
“Whenever I was practicing at my office I played really well. It’s so frustrating that in practice I hit a 140 and a 180 every time.”
The Dutch icon was quick to credit Bellmont’s composure under pressure. “Stefan played a great match. He deserved to win. He missed the bull for a 170 but whenever it was needed, he hit the double. My compliments, he just played well.”
Despite flashes of vintage form earlier this year — including an average of almost 108 on the European Tour in September — Van Barneveld has been unable to convert performances into results. He remains without a televised ranking title since March’s UK Open, despite appearances at multiple major events.
Looking ahead, the 58-year-old admitted uncertainty over his next steps. “It’s very difficult to answer what’s next,” he said. “On the practice board I’m a five-time World Champion, maybe even ten-time, but during the matches it just is not going my way.”
“Of course, this hurts. It’s the second time in a row this happens to me. I wonder by myself how to go on.”
“I have got homework to do and have to find out what to do next. But, this one hurts, that’s obvious.”
Source: PDC.TV
